Medical Issues

Be prepared!
Recently, we had an ambulance called to the dock for a paddler.
It could happen to any of our paddlers so please be sure that your team is prepared.

Your first aid rep should have the paddlers' health info at all times at practices and regattas.

Each team is to have First aid/CPR trained members on the boat.

Each team is to have a first aid kit and a cell phone. Use a cell phone to call 911 ASAP to have the ambulance waiting at the dock when you get back - the address is simply the north end of Church Street in Fort Langley.

The paddler above had chest pains, sweats, shivers... The team had a well equipped first aid bag including a blanket which was used. She is fine.

Please report all incidents.

Safety Matters

Safety Matters - to us ALL

Safety is everyone’s responsibility, all the time
It is not just the captain’s job.
If in doubt, don’t go out.

FRESHET - Click CURRENT SPEED to see predicted flow.

Do not power under the bridge as that is where hidden debris hangs

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AVADEPTH to see predicted water conditions.

Hypothermia - first aid for a patient

Cold Water Bootcamp - 10 minute film explaining the effects of cold water immersion

Boating Safety the latest guidance from Transport Canada.

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FLCC Safety Boat Instructions

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Learn to Become a Steersperson

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Your PFD needs to fit properly and be approved by Transport Canada – check the label – IT WORKS WHEN YOU WEAR IT.
File a float plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back.
Check the boat EVERY time it goes out. Bailers? Plugs? Lashings?
Check local weather conditions - wind speed and direction, air/water temperature, tides, currents, fog? What is the forecast?
Attach a pealess whistle to your PFD.
Know which members of the crew cannot swim – the rest of the team needs to know and have a plan.
Hypothermia can occur from rain, wind, splashing water, not just hulis. Be prepared. Take a small dry bag with a jacket and hat, even in the summer.
Glare off the water can damage eyes as well as skin – wear shades, have a light long sleeved shirt with you in the summer – use a ball cap.
Review your capsize/huli drill regularly – who does what? Buddy count?
Inform your coach, steersperson/captain of any health issues or medications that may affect your attention or performance.
Cold water saps your body’s core heat much faster than air. If you can’t get out of the water use the Heat Escape Lessening Position: With PFD on, cross arms tightly, draw knees up close to chest, remain calm and still. If more than one person, all huddle and hold on to each other.
If you see a dark line on the horizon – it’s wind and/or tide – be aware of it, head back if necessary – the darker the line, the stronger the wind.
According to Kanu Culture magazine, the Number One cause of hulis/capsizes is lack of communication.
Recreational boats, including canoes and kayaks, account for more than 50% of Search and Rescue Incidents.
Not having an APPROVED PFD that is an appropriate fit and in good condition, in most provinces, could cost you $200 for each violation.
Stupid Risk and Smart Risk. Recognize the difference. Stupid Risk is not taking/wearing PFD’s, not looking over your shoulder before you turn, paddling under the influence or hung over, not learning how to read a chart or recongize Aids to Navigation – for a few.
Putting a PFD on while you’re in the water is almost impossible. Put your PFD on before entering the water or have a buddy help you if you are already in the water.
Two big waves can swamp a canoe! If you are paddling in big or unpredictable waters, make sure you are using a spraydeck, and make sure it is in good shape.